Counselling services help individuals work through emotional or psychological issues. In 2022 alone, approximately 5.8 million adults in the US took advantage of this professional service while 60% of Canadians 18+ used it.
Counsellors are licensed, trained individuals who want to help other people live their best lives. They offer guidance, support, and expertise for mental health issues and the biggest challenges faced in life. Sadly, some of the people most in need of counselling may shy away from services because they believe it’s for weak people or only for those dealing with severe mental illness.
Myths about counselling may sway people to avoid therapy at all costs as it changes their perception of the service. Myths spread quickly, often by well-meaning people repeating information they believe to be true. Before long, the truth is hidden, and no one knows what to believe.
The consequences of these myths can be detrimental to the well-being of many people. Those consequences include:
- Lack of trust in counsellors
- Lack of trust in the mental health community
- Embarrassment and shame
- False expectations from therapy
- Failure to seek counselling assistance
Deciphering myths about counselling
Do not believe everything you hear. We vow to break the silence on counselling myths and put them to an end today. The truth can set you free and ensure that you get help that benefits every aspect of your life. Use this information to benefit your life and be sure to spread the word to others who need it, including family, friends, and co-workers.
Myth: Counselling is designated for serious life problems
Indeed, individuals battling mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, or bipolar disorder benefit from these services. What isn’t true is that it benefits only those dealing with severe mental illness.
Anyone who has been given a bucket of lemons can find out how to turn them into lemonade through these services. If you need help with relationship problems, dealing with grief, assistance with bettering yourself or other issues, counselling can help. It is a myth that this benefits only people with severe issues. Counsellors are there to better every life.
Myth: Counsellors are all the same
Counsellors are as unique as the services they provide. While they are licensed and trained, their techniques and strategies often vary, as will their personality. Finding a counsellor compatible with your needs is simple since there are so many distinct personalities in the world of therapy.
If you visit one and determine they are not compatible for you, switching to someone else is simple and works toward the success of your therapy sessions.
Myth: Counselling is for weak people
Therapy shows self-awareness and a desire to better yourself and your life. It takes an extremely strong person to admit their problems need a fresh perspective and approach. Never feel like you are a weak person because you seek help. Even celebrities we know and love, like Brad Pitt, Kourtney Kardashian, Prince Harry, and Demi Lovato, attend counselling sessions that help them become better versions of themselves.
Myth: Therapy doesn’t work
Studies show that counselling is successful in 75% of cases. People who attend counselling with realistic expectations can thrive from the help.
But remember that counsellors are not miracle workers. Sadly, they cannot push a button and enact changes. They cannot force anyone to accept help and change their lives.
You must be willing to put forth the time and effort to make changes in your life. Accepting help from a counsellor will not in and of itself create changes. If you attend counselling regularly and take strides to improve your life, you can expect great things.
Myth: Counsellors are only going to judge me
A counsellor is one of the most open-minded individuals you will ever meet. They do not judge their clients and are trained to accept and appreciate people and their unique qualities while providing them with a safe environment.
Myth: Therapy is too expensive
The cost of therapy is likely much less than you imagine, especially with the option to talk to someone online. Additionally, insurance plans often cover the costs of therapy sessions or at least make the price more affordable for the average budget.
Myth: Counsellors put you on medicine
Don’t worry about getting a prescription from a counsellor: they do not prescribe medication. They may work with psychiatrists to collaborate on medicinal treatments and address biological aspects of managing mental health issues, but do so only when necessary and on a case-by-case basis.
How many myths listed above did you believe before reading this blog post?
We certainly hope this blog sheds light on an important topic and eliminates some of the fear and worry you previously held. We aren’t finished yet, however, since we want you to know as much about therapists and therapy as possible before we leave you.
Facts about counsellors and therapists
- 70% of therapists are women
- Most therapists are white.
- Therapists work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, private practices, schools, and mental health centers.
- Therapists adhere to strict guidelines, including patient confidentiality, allowing more freedom in discussions and treatments.
- Nearly 200,000 therapists practice in the United States.
- There are about 500 different types of therapy.
- Psychotherapy reduces disability, morbidity, and mortality, improves work functioning, and decreases psychiatric hospitalizations.
- Counsellors often see patients once or twice per week, depending on their specific needs and circumstances.
- Do not expect a one-size-fits-all approach to your therapy. Counsellors tailor each session to the needs of the patient.
The bottom line
Life can throw curve balls at us that deeply impact our mental health and well-being. Rather than believe falsehoods and hit a strike, find a counsellor with the know-how to help bring you back to homerun status.
Whether you’re dealing with mental illness, heartache, grief, parenting trouble, relationship problems, or other issues, they are there to help guide you in the right direction.
Robert Haynes, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
